Steve Arwood
Director, Michigan Talent and Economic Development
MEDC
Steve Arwood wears dual hats as both the director of the department of Talent and Economic Development (TED) and as the CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
A newly-created state department which recently launched in March 2015, TED brings state job creation and economic development efforts together under one umbrella. The department consists of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, the Michigan Strategic Fund and the newly created Talent Investment Agency, which joins the efforts of the Unemployment Insurance Agency and the Workforce Development Agency. The department was created to ensure that the state can efficiently and effectively develop, administer and coordinate Michigan’s economic, housing, and talent development initiatives and programs.
As the MEDC CEO, Arwood is charged with implementing and executing MEDC’s core mission of business development and attraction, community development, providing access to capital and improving Michigan’s image and brand. His responsibilities will include administering all programs, funds, personnel, contracts and all other administrative functions of MEDC.
In 2013, Governor Rick Snyder appointed Steve Arwood as director of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and chief regulatory officer to serve in a leadership role in reinventing the state’s regulatory and licensing environment. He served as LARA deputy director overseeing the Unemployment Insurance Agency and Employment Security and Workplace Safety, which includes MIOSHA, Employment Relations and Workers' Compensation. He joined LARA in 2011 from Windlab Developments, USA, LTD, where he served as U.S. regional director. He has worked in wind energy development, conservation, and business development since 1999. He previously served as deputy director and other executive management positions at the Michigan Jobs Commission under Governor John Engler. He has also served as director for the House of Representatives Programs and Policy, and the National Federation for Independent Business-Michigan.
Arwood is a graduate of the James Madison College at Michigan State University.
211 West Fort Street
